Imphal: Manipur governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla graced the observance of the International Day of Older Persons, 2025 at Imphal Hotel on Wednesday.
This year’s theme, ‘Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, Our Rights,’ highlighted the vital role of elders as active contributors to society.
During the event, the governor distributed gifts, aids, and assistive devices to senior citizens, reaffirming the State’s commitment to their dignity and well-being. The event was also attended by chief secretary; secretary, Social Welfare department, senior citizens, students, NGOs and other stakeholders.
Bhalla emphasised that elders are not merely recipients of care but active participants in shaping society. He highlighted that their wisdom, resilience, and lived experiences remain invaluable assets, guiding both families and communities toward harmony and progress.
Highlighting the role of youth, Governor noted that the energy and innovation of younger generations, when combined with the wisdom and stability of the elderly, create a powerful force capable of addressing both local challenges and global concerns.
Reiterating that dignity, respect, and inclusion are matters of justice rather than charity, Governor called for stronger intergenerational solidarity to build a more compassionate and inclusive Manipur.
The governor also appreciated the sustained efforts of the Department of Social Welfare in implementing welfare schemes and initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of senior citizens across the state.
The day was also observed at Dharmalaya Hall, Brahmapur Nahabam Leikai, Imphal East.
The function, organised by Senior Citizen’s Forum, was graced by Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, Speaker, Manipur Legislative Assembly as the chief guest and G.A Ravichandra Sharma as the president of the function.
Satyabrata underlined the significance of the day and emphasized the responsibility of younger generations in caring for elders. He stressed the need for intergenerational bonding and welfare measures to ensure a dignified life for the older people. He ensured that an office building for Senior Citizen Forum will be constructed at Paradise Club, Wangkhei.
Ravichandra highlighted the history of observing International Day of Older Persons and its first official observance on 1st October, 1991. He stressed on the importance of establishment of Senior Citizens’ Forum, Imphal East in 2010. He said the forum was a platform to voice the concerns of the older people, recreational, share experiences and participate in activities that enhanced their wellbeing and community involvement. Stating the quote ‘Life is full of dreams, yet it is not a dream, life is real’, he said, in essence, the dreams of senior citizens are often more balanced, realistic and constructive, shaped by experience, reflection and a broader understanding of life’s true values.
Dr. Chongtham Norendra Singh, Sr. Advocate, also shared his insights on “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well- Being and Our Rights”.
Seventeen elder persons from different Assembly Constituencies of the state were felicitated. Ex servicemen, local elders and office bearers of Senior Citizens’ Forum, Imphal East were also present in the function.
